REPORT: Odion Ighalo to Sign for Manchester United on Loan

WATFORD, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 20: Odion Ighalo of Watford celebrates as he scores their second goal during the Barclays Premier League match between Watford and Liverpool at Vicarage Road on December 20, 2015 in Watford, England. (Photo by Ian Walton/Getty Images)

Manchester United are set to complete a loan deal for former Watford striker Odion Ighalo, according to Fabrizio Romano. The deal includes an option to buy. United had attempted to re-sign striker Josh King from Bournemouth, but with a deal looking increasingly unlikely, United turned their attention to Ighalo. The striker, who has been playing in China for Shanghai Shenhua, has signed a six-month loan deal at Old Trafford.

Manchester United Set to Sign Odion Ighalo

Premier League Experience

United had been looking for a short term answer to their current striking problems. Any deal looked unlikely as time on transfer deadline day ticked away. However, the Red Devils have got a player who can help out on loan and who also has Premier League experience. Ighalo scored 45 goals in 100 games for Watford before moving to Shanghai Shenhua for £22 million three years ago. The Nigerian has gone on to score 46 goals in 76 games.

Attempts to Sign Josh King Failed

United had been keen to bring former striker Josh King back to Old Trafford. A bid early on transfer deadline day was rejected. According to the Daily Mail, United offered £20 million; however, Bournemouth wanted £40 million. With the Red Devils needing to pay double the fee they wanted too, alternatives were looked at.

Time Not on United’s Side But Deal Done

Due to having little time left in the transfer window, getting the deal done would prove difficult. Plus, Ighlo being in China and flight restrictions not in his favour did not breed confidence. However, both player and United were determined to complete the deal. Ighalo had been in pre-season training but this had been suspended due to the outbreak of the Coronavirus. Even though obstacles were in the way, a deal has been done.

Tottenham Rivaled United

It is believed that Tottenham Hotspur were also interested in the 30-year-old striker. Like United, they had been looking at a short-term answer to their current injury worries. According to Sky Sports, Tottenham made a late move for the player but United won the race.

Barry has been writing for LWOS since March 2015. He covers Sunderland as well as football in general. Originally from the City of Sunderland, he now lives in Berwick Upon Tweed. A passionate supporter of his hometown club, he went to his first game in 1987.